A native of Philadelphia, bassist Alexander Claffy learned from the city’s jazz scene how to propel a band with that ineffable Philly bounce. It’s no surprise then that he’s an in-demand sideman with hard swingers like pianist David Kikoski and guitarist Peter Bernstein. Claffy is an accomplished bandleader as well, blending athletic bop improvisation with well-worn grooves, like on his latest album Music from Big Orange.

This week, Claffy makes his Jazz Gallery debut as a leader with a sextet including regular collaborator-peer Simon Moullier on vibes and inveterate drummer Jochen Rückert. The band will head to the famed Rudy Van Gelder studio next week to record a new album, so don’t miss this first taste of new music from Claffy and company.

The Alexander Claffy 6 play The Jazz Gallery on Thursday, February 2, 2023. The group features Mr. Claffy on bass, Matt Chalk on alto sax, Troy Roberts on tenor sax, Rasmus Sorenson on piano, Simon Moullier on vibraphone, and Jochen Rüchert on drums. Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. E.S.T. $20 general admission (FREE for members), $30 reserved cabaret seating ($20 for members), $20 livestream access (FREE for members) for each set. Putchase tickets here.